Kennedy quits Quins to rejoin Irish as academy director

Quins lock Nick Kennedy has called time on his playing career to coach the next generation of stars at former club London Irish.

Former England international Kennedy, who made 217 appearances in a decade at the exiles, will become academy director, with former Sutton & Epsom scrum half and fellow ex-London Irish star Paul Hodgson also returning to the club as academy backs coach.

The pair will work alongside ex-Teddington head coach and London Irish AASE manager Giselle Mather.

"I have decided to cut short my playing career to be part of the exciting new era at London Irish," said Kennedy.

"I, along with many other past and present international rugby players, am a product of the club's academy.

"I look forward to joining up with the team in the summer, and working with the future stars of the slub.”

Hodgson added: "These are exciting times at London Irish and I am thrilled to be part of it.

"The academy has been the essence of the club for a long time and it is a huge part of the new owners' vision.

"It will be an exciting challenge but, with the team that has been acquired, one that we will be up for.”